Electricity Cost Calculator
Find out how much any appliance or device costs to run. Enter its wattage, how long it runs each day and your electricity rate.
How to use the Electricity Cost Calculator
- Enter the power use in watts (check the label or manual).
- Enter the hours used per day.
- Enter your electricity rate in dollars per kWh.
How it works
kWh = watts × hours ÷ 1,000, and cost = kWh × rate. A 100 W device running 5 hours a day uses 0.5 kWh per day; at $0.17/kWh that is about 8.5 cents a day or $2.59 a month. Your rate is on your electricity bill — divide the energy charge by the kWh used.
Typical appliance running costs at $0.17/kWh
| Appliance | Watts | Hours/day | Cost/month |
|---|---|---|---|
| LED bulb | 10 | 5 | $0.26 |
| Laptop | 50 | 8 | $2.07 |
| TV (55″ LED) | 100 | 4 | $2.07 |
| Refrigerator (average draw) | 150 | 24 | $18.62 |
| Window AC | 900 | 8 | $37.23 |
| Space heater | 1500 | 6 | $46.54 |
| Clothes dryer | 3000 | 1 | $15.51 |
Frequently asked questions
How do I find an appliance’s wattage?
Look for a label on the back or bottom, or in the manual. If only amps are given, multiply amps by volts (120 V in the US).
What is the average electricity rate in the US?
Residential rates average roughly 16–18 cents per kWh, but vary widely by state.
How much does it cost to run 1,000 watts for an hour?
One kWh — about 17 cents at $0.17/kWh.